The Independent Broadcasters of Ireland (IBI), the organisation representing Ireland’s 34 independent radio stations, has welcomed the decision by Cabinet to publish amending broadcasting legislation. Included in the bill is a proposal to reduce the broadcasting levy by up to 50 per cent. The decision delivers on a post-election promise made to broadcasters.
IBI chairman John Purcell (pictured) said the work done by both Communications Minister Richard Bruton and his predecessor Denis Naughten shows a recognition of the importance of independent radio in Ireland and the Broadcasting Amendment Bill puts practical steps in place to ensure the future viability of our independent radio sector.
The IBI is confident that the bill’s swift progression can be achieved in a context where cross party support for the measure was expressed in a recent Fianna Fáil Dáil private members motion. IBI executive director Lisa Ni Choisdealbha said radio listenership remains strong with 3.1 million people tuning to an Irish radio station every day.
Of this, 68 per cent of radio listening in Ireland is to an independent station.
